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Craig got in touch quickly, gave me a rough estimate over the phone and answered all my questions. Surveyor arrived on time, gave instant quote. Price was good. Michael and (another) Craig turned up to do the job on the day, time given. Good, tidy job. Can't fault anything, from start to finish!! Would recommend!

Mary

George and his team are experienced builders, replaced my front door with a custom frame/sidelights and raising the floor level in the hallway quite quickly - in fact, they were the only who came next day, gave a quote straightaway and were ready to start in just couple of days. They also had all the necessary tools and materials, were ready to buy something additional quickly on the day - if further adjustments were required to fit everything as I asked. Thanks a lot for your help, guys!

Dmitry

Highly recommend. These guys did a fantastic job of constructing our pergola and decking. Very hardworking and reliable. The job was completed in the time frame agreed and to a very high standard. We would 100% use them again.

Holly

Foundations, underpinning and piling are complex, technical services that require the know-how of specialist groundworkers and engineers. More than any other part of your home, it pays to invest in solid foundations, so find a professional you can trust today.

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Underpinning, piling and foundation construction – Rated People

When it comes to foundations and underpinning, the name tells you everything you need to know about their importance to your home. This specialist groundwork quite literally provides the base your home is built on. And that’s why it’s absolutely vital the professionals you use are experienced experts who know what they’re doing.

The complexity of foundations (and underpinning or piling, if required) depends on the structure you’re building, and the state of the ground your home or plot sits on. Basic foundations involve filling trenches (dug precisely according to plans) with a layer of solid concrete and then building blockwork up to ground level. Alternatively, an entire trench can be filled with concrete to just below ground level before adding damp proof coursing.

Piling is becoming an increasing popular alternative to standard footings or foundations. It involves driving piles into the ground, which are made from steel, concrete or even wood. A ground beam then sits atop the foundation, which your structure can be built on.

Underpinning is required when existing foundations have become defective, and to counter issues like subsidence. The appropriate method will be recommended by an experienced groundwork specialist and potentially a structural engineer too. The standard approach to underpinning involves excavating specific sections below the footing and reinforcing them with concrete. Piling techniques provide an alternative to traditional underpinning and can be used in situations where there’s restricted access. Not only is piling faster than standard underpinning, but it has a higher load capability and less disruption. Those benefits come at a cost though, and you’ll find piling is significantly pricier than standard concrete underpinning.

Cost of foundations, underpinning and piling

It pays to invest in foundations, but quite how much you’ll need to invest depends on the type of foundations you require. Basic foundation laying involves the following steps (excluding site clearance and the setting out of footings):

  • Excavation: £7-£10 per sqm
  • Laying foundations (concrete and blockwork): £40-£60 per sqm

Piling costs are typically significantly higher than standard foundations – anywhere from 2-3 times more expensive than the concrete and blockwork method.

Similarly, underpinning costs vary according to the issue that needs to be resolved, and the method selected. For mass concrete underpinning you can expect to pay between £1,000-£2,000 per linear metre.

How to build a foundation

Basic foundations follow a fairly simple process. After you’ve consulted a structural engineer and have all the necessary plans approved, the first step is to dig out trenches. Your groundwork professional may recommend a ground survey before any digging begins. This process involves creating trial holes to ensure the foundation method you plan to use is appropriate. With (or without) that survey complete, footings can then be dug to the agreed level.

The next phase involves laying concrete into the base of the trench to at least 250mm in depth. Blockwork is then built up to floor level. This method is called a strip foundation. Alternatively, a technique known as “trenchfill” involves (unsurprisingly) filling the trench with concrete to just below ground level. Both methods are completed with the application of a damp-proof course onto which the ground floor can be installed.

How does piling work

There are three main piling techniques: screw piling, pile and beam, and piled raft.

Screw piling is the simplest piling technique to execute. A small crew of ground-workers can install screw piles and brackets by hand or with the assistance of a small excavator. This method is well-suited to walls and larger structures, when used with supporting brackets. Screw piling offers a number of benefits, including ease of installation, lower costs and reduced environmental impact.

The pile and beam method involves installing mini-piles either side of a wall. Brickwork can then be removed below the affected wall, and a reinforced concrete needle beam inserted to connect the piles. The pile and beam technique is well-suited to homes on smaller plots, or with restricted access. It’s also faster and less messy than traditional mass concrete underpinning and is capable of bearing high loads.

Finally, there’s the piled raft approach. Piled raft foundations are required when an entire building needs to be underpinned, when foundations can’t be accessed or where soil conditions aren’t suitable for any other method. Piles are placed into the ground and needle beams are installed to help bear the load. A ring beam links the needles together and the structure is then filled with concrete.

When does a house need underpinning?

Cracked walls, ceilings or flooring are the tell-tale signs that you may need to have all or part of your home underpinned. Diagonal cracks, or those that reach a quarter of an inch or larger, are classic symptoms of faulty foundations, or problematic ground conditions. More severe warning signs are walls beginning to buckle. Underpinning, either using the mass concrete method or any of the piling techniques outlined above, can help to remedy these problems.

While underpinning is usually associated with foundation problems, it can also be required if you’re planning to add another floor to a building, or if it needs to stand up to increased load-bearing requirements.

The qualifications your foundation, piling or underpinning professional needs

Foundations and piling or underpinning will almost always require the expertise of a structural engineer. They will be able to advise on load bearing considerations, as well as the most appropriate technique to use (taking ground and soil conditions into account). Choose an experienced professional who holds chartered status from the Institution of Structural Engineers.

The groundworkers carrying out your excavation work should also be experienced, though they won’t need formal accreditation. A diploma, City and Guilds qualification or evidence of completing an apprenticeship is always helpful, but ultimately you should look for a proven track record of delivering groundwork services to a high standard and complete customer satisfaction.

Planning permission for foundation, piling or underpinning work

How and where you lay foundations will be determined by the planning permission you’ve been granted. This will be decided by your local planning authority, and unless an unforeseen issue crops up you’ll need to stick closely to what you’ve been given permission for.

When it comes to underpinning, you won’t require planning permission to remedy a fault with your foundations. The only exception here is a listed building, which may have certain limitations.

Insurance for foundation, piling or underpinning work

It’s crucial that your professional holds public liability insurance, to cover your property against damage. Such is the importance of this work, most structural engineers will also hold professional indemnity insurance, protecting them in case anything goes wrong with the services they’ve provided.

Questions you should ask your foundation, piling or underpinning professional

  • For standard foundations, which method would they use (and why)?
  • Will they be using a strip or trenchfill foundation?
  • For underpinning, which technique would they advise on (and why)?
  • For piling, what is the most cost-effective option available?
  • Can they provide a warranty (or do they have professional indemnity insurance) to cover their work?
P and L Contractors avatar

P and L Contractors

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

We are a building company that have been in operation for over 25 years We are mostly architect or customer recommendations based We can organise a local architect to produce your plans or price plans you already have We are a little old school where we will give you a competitive estimate and then show you the works we are doing also a job we have finished recently

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Reviewed by Manny on 16/4/2025

Excellent guys, no fuss and got the job done quick and to an excellent level of quality! Highly recommend!

WE ARE FAMILY RUNNING BUSINESS WE ARE PROVIDING TOP QUALITY WORK AND FARINDLY CUSTOMERS SERVICES WE ARE ESTABLISHED SINCE 2017. BATHROOM / KITCHEN FITTING . WALL FLOOR TILING. PLASTER / SKIMMING / PAINTINGS. WALLPAPERS ???? DECORATING. ROOMS. OUR ANY BUILDER WORK INSIDE OR OUTSIDE.

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Reviewed by Diane on 25/2/2022

did the job well re shower tray that was leaking. iwas let down by a coupie of other traders , but JozsefBUILDER AND TILING came out said they could do the job quoted me avery reasonable price, .fixed the leaking shower tray and were very efficient and polite would definetly reccomend them and would hire them again

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Dura Power LTD

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

DURA POWER LTD is a company that specialises in refurbishment and new build projects, particularly in the education, healthcare and commercial sectors. With extensive experience in these fields, we offer a value-added approach and understanding of our clients’ requirements. We maintain strong relationships with a wide variety of tried and tested subcontractors. This strong supply chain enables us to provide flexibility, manage change and maintain quality. We are capable of handling tendered or negotiated projects . Our financial strengths come from a commitment to reinvest, ensuring a sound financial base is maintained without external borrowings. We have a team of directly employed professional staff who deliver a cost-effective, timely, and high-quality construction solution. Our core team of tradesmen delivers consistent quality and has the ability to be flexible and reactive to requirements. Our long-lasting client partnerships are a testimony to the exemplary service we provide. This level of customer satisfaction, repeat and referred business forms the foundation of DURA POWER LTD success. Our approach is sensitive, innovative and bespoke, driven by challenging and constrictive working environments. We are committed to achieving the optimum solutions across our service delivery, considering logistical aspects to ensure customer satisfaction.

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Reviewed by Michael on 8/6/2025

Took a part to do an additional job on my dishwasher. Quoted £50 on the day. Weeks later after I had to chase. Said it would be £130. I said no. After chasing some more they agreed to send the part back so I could get the job done elsewhere and I can't find the right part without the original. They agreed to post the part back. It's been weeks and no parts have been sent back. I have sent messages and calls and I'm being ignored. Very unprofessional.

With over 40 years combined experience in the building trade our company has grown and build an amazing portfolio of jobs and customer clientele. We cover all aspects of building and landscaping no job is to small and no job is to big we can handle them all. Our company cover everything from start to finish on all jobs so no need to worry about sorting anything, making it a smooth process for our customers

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Reviewed by Kerim on 7/6/2025

Will happily consider for future work.

General Building and maintenance New builds Exstensions Restoration Renovation

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Reviewed by Timothy on 9/12/2024

We had them in to install insulation in our upstairs floor, replace the sub floor, replace some lights, install a loft hatch, and board out our loft. On top of this they discovered a problem in our roof that they fixed. We were incredibly impressed by all of the staff that attended on site. They were friendly, polite at all times, and worked really hard, to a high standard. I couldn't recommend James and his team more, and we've already started talking to them about a further project.

Rooftop construction Ltd a locally run business with many years in the trade we aim to please all our customers with precision roofing techniques and a wealth of knowledge to solve any roofing issues including flat roofs pitched roof garage roofs we also attend to storm damage work and we aim to attend all quotation on time every time !

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Reviewed by David on 27/11/2024

C Jenkins & Sons Limited Welcome to C Jenkins & Sons Limited, your trusted partner for comprehensive property solutions in London. With a rich legacy of excellence, we take pride in offering a diverse range of services tailored to meet all your property maintenance needs. From roofing to landscaping, patios, driveways, and power washing, we are your one-stop destination for elevating the aesthetics and functionality of your property. Our Specializations: 1. Property Maintenance: C Jenkins & Sons Limited is your go-to partner for proactive property maintenance. Our dedicated team ensures your property remains in optimal condition, providing regular inspections, repairs, and maintenance services to protect your investment. 2. Roofing Services: We specialize in roofing solutions that stand the test of time. Whether you require repairs, installations, or renovations, our skilled craftsmen employ the latest techniques and premium materials to deliver roofing solutions that marry durability with aesthetic appeal. 3. Landscaping Services: Transform your outdoor spaces into a haven of beauty with our bespoke landscaping services. From garden design to regular maintenance, our creative team crafts environments that harmonize with your lifestyle and preferences. 4. Patios and Driveways: Enhance your property's curb appeal with our expertly designed patios and driveways. Our team combines functionality with aesthetics to create inviting outdoor spaces that reflect your style. 5. Power Washing: Revitalize the exterior of your property with our professional power washing services. We remove dirt, grime, and stains, restoring surfaces to their original glory and leaving your property looking fresh and rejuvenated. Why Choose C Jenkins & Sons Limited: Comprehensive Expertise: With a wide range of services, we offer a holistic approach to property enhancement, ensuring all your needs are met under one roof. in property maintenance, roofing, landscaping, patios, driveways, and power washing services. Your property deserves the best, and we are here to deliver it. Customer-Centric Approach: We value your vision and work closely with you to understand your preferences, ensuring a personalized and satisfying experience. Timely and Reliable: At C Jenkins & Sons Limited, we understand the importance of timeliness. We complete projects efficiently without compromising on quality. Elevate your property with C Jenkins & Sons Limited – where excellence meets diversity .

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Reviewed by Rebecca on 16/5/2025

I couldn’t be happier with the work! Chris and his team transformed my back garden into a beautiful, functional space I actually enjoy spending time in. Professional, punctual, and creative from start to finish. Highly recommend for anyone looking to upgrade their outdoor space!

Builder Link LTD avatar

Builder Link LTD

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

We are your trusted experts in comprehensive building & maintenance services, offering a wide range of solutions to meet all your needs. From minor repairs to large-scale projects, we’ve got you covered. Our skilled team specialise in all aspects of construction, including plumbing, boiler breakdowns, emergency call-outs, and gas safety/boiler services. We also excel in joinery work, handling both minor repairs and major construction projects, from kitchens to full house renovations, extensions property refurbs. In addition, we provide all aspects of plastering services, encompassing repairs, full-house projects, damp course works, external rendering, and k-render applications. Roofing is another of our specialties, with services ranging from repairs to complete house renovations. When it comes to electrical work, we take care of it all, from repairs and installations to full re-wires, EICR certificates, and remedial works. Our skilled painters and decorators, who are part of our dedicated team, ensure your space looks its best. We also offer EPC certificates and guarantee that all our work meets the necessary standards. For those looking to transform their homes completely, we offer full house renovations from start to finish. Landlords benefit from our fast turnaround times, ensuring their properties are ready for sale or back on the market promptly. All major works and extensions come with our comprehensive guarantee. Choose us for your maintenance needs, and experience quality service from start to finish. List of services Joinery Plumbing Expert painting and decorating Plastering all aspects Roofing works Electrical works Property maintenance Bathroom refurbishment Kitchen refurbishment Full property refurbishment Extensions and conversions Fire door checks sign off Minor or major repairs Planning and a full schedule of works with all quotes.

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Reviewed by KIERAN on 10/3/2024
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Express Services

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

We at Express Services painting-decorating-tiling and flooring provide quality professional and affordable work carried out and aim to keep the clients happy and satisfied with our work.

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Reviewed by Cristiano on 8/12/2023

Hard working, honest and trustworthy. Good quality work and willing to go the extra mile.

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Joiint Construction

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

JoiintConstruction is a Hampshire-based construction company, backed by a team of highly skilled craftsmen and professionals dedicated to delivering projects of any size from concept to completion. Whether you need assistance with design, construction, or both, we ensure a seamless process and top-quality results.

We are a reliable and successful company and we provide the quality and the qualification of the work and product which we are doing for you .Our motto is, my customer my boss. We coming for a long journey experience working of 20 years working experience in Spain,Italy, United kingdom and Romania of landscaping industry and inside and outside house design of isolation,consolidation, any work of tiles or painting. We coming with the real quote of the work we try to be in competition with the construction quotations and to make our clients to make our publicity for work and quotations

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Reviewed by Elizabeth on 6/3/2025

So ,so pleased with what Alex & Sons have done with our garden , we can now sit in a beautiful garden , we highly recommend, they have truly worked magic and we a truly grateful. Well done

Dear Customer, We are a construction company with over 25 years experience. We undertake all aspects of building work, including new builds, extensions, lofts, total renovations, new bathroom and kitchens. All work guaranteed and certified for, GasSafe and NiCEiC approved on completion.

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Reviewed by Paul on 21/11/2024

Great job good price

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W2.0 DEVELOPMENTS LTD

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

With over 25 years of experience, and with Danny Walker at the helm and Alex Grouse of W2.0 Developments Ltd has become a trusted name in construction and development in The Home Counties. As a reputable principal contractor, we specialise in delivering high-quality construction services to both residential and commercial clients. Our commitment to excellence and client satisfaction sets us apart as one of the top construction companies in The Home Counties. Founded on the principles of quality, reliability, and innovation, W2.0 Developments Ltd has grown from a small local contractor into a leading force in the construction industry across The Home Counties. Our journey has been driven by our dedication to delivering exceptional results, building lasting relationships with our clients, and continually raising the standards of construction.

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Reviewed by Andrew on 1/4/2025

Dan is a force of nature, as anyone who’s met him will agree. He and his team were always dedicated, hard-working and good natured. I would recommend Dan and his team to anyone, especially for a big renovation project like this, which involves working with other parties, such as structural engineers, kitchen designers and installers, as he works with them and takes away most of the pain. The quality of the work is excellent and he always came back to complete the snag list (even 3x for our thresholds).

AK Construction SW LTD is an experienced, growing building company based in Taunton, Somerset. We cover all aspects of the building, maintenance and decoration trades and we love to leave a finished job that we can be proud of. We're well known for the quality of our work and attention to detail. As such, our services are sought after from small jobs to larger projects like extensions and refurbishments. We also specialise in bespoke English Larch decking and fencing as well as outdoor offices and garden rooms to transform your outdoor areas and add long lasting kerb appeal to your home. We're available to undertake a diverse range of jobs big and small, from skilled and detailed refurbishments, bathroom remodelling, kitchen installations, carpentry, decorating, plumbing, general building and electrical repairs, to complete renovations, improvements and property extensions. Our small and friendly team of skilled tradesmen take pride in our work and strive to finish each job to a high standard and would love to come and quote for your needs. All work fully insured.

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Reviewed by tim on 18/12/2024

Fred and his team did a brilliant job replacing my bathroom floor and shower. Every effort was made to ensure job was completed to the highest standard and we can’t be happier with the finished product. Would highly recommend AK constructions SW for your building needs.

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Remi Builders

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

22 YEARS EXPERIENCE ON BUILDING and construction. With my team we did from Garden Landscape all the way to new build yet making sure Clinet saves as much as possible on they projects cost . We are qualified Gas safety Electrical Plumbing We specialaise on: Loft conversion Bathroom Kitchen Extensions Paiting and Decorating Plumbing Roofing Garden Landscaping Insured and insurance backed services

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Reviewed by Margaret on 14/2/2025

Prompt efficient service. Left area clean after work completed.

RAR offer a full hard landscaping, groundwork and building service, including but not restricted too, ~ Patios ~ Paths ~ Drive ways ~ Fencing ~ Turf ~ Bespoke timber structures ~ Sleeper work ~ Ponds ~ Small and medium sized building jobs ~ Garden clearance Specialising in low maintenance gardens. with over 20yrs experience in these sectors I offer high quality and am happy to chat through what is required.

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Reviewed by Sophie on 21/3/2025

Rob gave me a competitive quote and got the job completed quickly I was able to give Rob a key to my house so he completed the work while I was at work .I will definitely be using Robs company again

The smallest details can make a real impact when it comes to designing a space, but only a true professional knows how to bring these details together to create a seamless design. That’s where Complete Kitchens And Renovations comes in. With over 35 years experience and a team of skilled tradesmen you'll be in safe hands. ? We work throughout the South-East providing bespoke home renovations and extensions tailored to our clients’ needs. ? From a small kitchen installation to a full house renovation, no job is too big or small.

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Reviewed by sandra on 28/3/2024

Very happy with result.

we are experience refurbishment contractors. we are reputable and reliable builders, established since 2010 and over 20years experience in building trade. using our skill and materials, we are eager to ensure that our customers are completely satisfied.

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Reviewed by Vinoth on 5/3/2025

Did not received the quote / response after sent the details.

Comprehensive Building and Landscaping Services by R Richards Builders & Landscaping R Richards Builders & Landscaping is a family-owned business with over 30 years of experience, specialising in a wide range of construction and landscaping services. Our Services: - General Building: We undertake all types of general building work, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship in every project. - New Builds: From planning to completion, we provide comprehensive new build services tailored to your specifications. - Extensions: Whether you’re looking to add more space or enhance your property’s value, our extension services are designed to meet your needs. Renovations: We offer expert renovation services to transform and modernize your existing spaces. - Restorations: Our team is skilled in restoring properties to their former glory, preserving historical integrity while updating functionality. - Groundworks: We handle all groundwork projects, including foundations, drainage systems, and site preparation. - Landscaping: Our landscaping services cover everything from garden design and maintenance to hardscaping and outdoor structures. Why Choose Us? With a commitment to delivering the highest standards of service, we pride ourselves on completing projects on time and within budget. Our team is passionate about quality and customer satisfaction, ensuring that every project, no matter the size, is executed with precision and care.

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Reviewed by John on 5/11/2024

These builders did turn up and have worked on the chimney. However, I've not received photos of the job they did or received a guarantee as promised. There is damp in the wall still After several attempts to contact them, I've recieved nothing back.

With experience from Italy and from U.K in painting and decorating. Wi try to doo our best for the client, to give quality , responasability,advice if its necesary in our jobs. We belive your home should reflect your personal taste and style.

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Reviewed by Anna on 6/6/2025

Had bathroom window sill and window repaired, excellent service, highly recommend. Came out and gave us a quote and then came to do the job within a week to high quality, well-priced and very efficient. Thank you!!

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